A dark cloud has descended over Emzombeni Car Wash and Eatery after a robbery in the early hours of March 25 left the community-driven establishment counting losses estimated at R340 000.

For now, the business has shut its doors.

Founders Haksul Muziq (real name Tokoloho Mavuso) and Aron Mathabela confirmed that the incident took place at approximately 01:00.

According to the founders, the security guard on duty was held hostage while suspects removed high-value equipment and stock from the premises.

After being released, the guard ran to Muziq’s home to alert him to what had happened.

Among the items stolen were essential kitchen equipment, alcohol valued at more than R34 000, DJ equipment worth over R240 000, as well as solar panels, batteries and inverters.

This is a crippling blow to a business that had been steadily growing and reinvesting in the local community.
Information received indicates that the suspects were travelling in a white Toyota Quantum and a white Ford Ranger.

Due to the nature and precision of the robbery, SAPS suspects that the perpetrators may have had inside information.

Anyone with knowledge that could assist the investigation is urged to contact 061 085 2561.

Tip-offs may be made anonymously, and a reward of R15 000 is being offered for concrete information that leads to arrests.

Impact on families

While the financial damage is severe, Mathabela emphasised that the real impact has been on the employees and their families.

“The incident has affected the staff and their families more than it has affected management. Our employees were paid weekly, and now they are at home with no income. Some are sole breadwinners. It hurts us deeply because we know what this job meant to them and their households,” he said.

Emzombeni had grown from employing 11 young people at its launch to 15 staff members, along with additional management personnel, as the business expanded due to strong community support.

The founders said that the establishment was created specifically to tackle unemployment in Palm Ridge and to provide young people with an alternative to crime and substance abuse.

Beyond being a car wash and eatery, Emzombeni also served as a creative hub.

It provided a platform for aspiring artists, poets and dancers to showcase their talents in a safe and supportive environment.

The vision was to build not only a business but a space where relationships could be formed, bonds strengthened, and hope restored.

“All we ever wanted was to create job opportunities. Now it feels like we are back to square one. But we refuse to see this as a failed mission,” Mathabela.

Community upliftment

Muziq, who has long been recognised for his commitment to uplifting communities, echoed the sentiment.

Born and raised in Ekurhuleni, the award-winning artist partnered with Mathabela to ensure the project would focus on sustainability rather than profit alone.

Their goal was to grow the branch into multiple sites, each creating more employment opportunities across the region.

“This situation is heavy, but the dream is far bigger. Our why is powerful. When your goal is big, giving up is not an option. We will keep grinding and navigate through this challenge,” Haksul said.

SAPS is investigating the case and continues to provide daily feedback as enquiries deepen.

For now, the establishment remains closed until further notice.

Management has appealed to the community for prayers, encouragement and solidarity during this difficult time.

They remain hopeful that with community support and justice served, Emzombeni Car Wash and Eatery will soon reopen its doors and continue its mission of creating employment, eliminating hunger in vulnerable homes and offering a positive space for Palm Ridge residents.